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Ultimate 3-Layer Buckeye Brownies

A single, thick square of layered buckeye brownies featuring a dark chocolate base, peanut butter filling, and chocolate ganache topping.

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Make rich, fudgy Buckeye Brownies featuring a dense brownie base, a creamy peanut butter fudge center, and a glossy dark chocolate ganache topping. This layered dessert bar combines classic chocolate and peanut butter flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the Brownie Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the 1 cup of chocolate chips.
  4. Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center will still be slightly soft. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
  5. Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until smooth. Add the peanut butter, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  6. Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the cooled brownie layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the topping.
  7. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Topping: Place the 1 1/2 cups of chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
  8. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer, spreading it quickly to cover the entire surface evenly.
  9. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is firm.
  10. Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab from the pan. Cut into squares to make your decadent chocolate peanut butter dessert bars.

Notes

  • For a fudgier brownie, reduce the baking time by 2-3 minutes.
  • If you prefer a thicker peanut butter layer, use 1 1/2 cups of peanut butter instead of 1 cup.
  • To achieve a clean cut, run your knife under hot water and wipe it dry between slices.

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